NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Exam Preview Answers
1. When reviewing the demographics of ethnic groups in the United States, which group does the nurse recall as the largest and fastest-growing population?
- A. Asian
- B. Hispanic
- C. American Indian
- D. African American/Black
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Hispanic.' Hispanics are the largest and fastest-growing population in the United States. While African Americans/Blacks, Asians, American Indians, and other groups are significant, Hispanics currently represent the largest demographic group. African American/Black, Asian, and American Indian populations are substantial but not as large or fast-growing as the Hispanic population. Therefore, Hispanic is the most appropriate choice in this scenario.
2. What is the correct action regarding thigh pressure when comparing it to arm pressure in an adolescent with high blood pressure?
- A. The popliteal artery should be auscultated to obtain thigh pressure.
- B. The best position to measure thigh pressure is the prone position.
- C. If the blood pressure in the arm is high in an adolescent, then it should be compared with the thigh pressure.
- D. Thigh pressure is generally higher than arm pressure due to the proximity to the heart and the size of the popliteal vessels.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When blood pressure measured in the arm is significantly elevated, especially in adolescents and young adults, it is crucial to compare it with thigh pressure to assess for coarctation of the aorta. The popliteal artery, not the femoral artery, should be auscultated for the thigh pressure reading as the femoral artery is closer to the placement of the blood pressure cuff. Generally, thigh pressure is higher than arm pressure; however, if there is coarctation of the artery, arm pressures can be higher than thigh pressures. The preferred position for measuring thigh pressure is the prone position, not supine, with the knee slightly bent to facilitate accurate readings.
3. Which complication of cardiac catheterization should the nurse monitor for in the initial 24 hours after the procedure?
- A. Angina at rest
- B. Thrombus formation
- C. Dizziness
- D. Falling blood pressure
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Thrombus formation is a critical complication of cardiac catheterization that the nurse should monitor for in the initial 24 hours after the procedure. A thrombus can form in the blood vessels, obstructing blood flow and potentially leading to serious consequences such as embolism or organ ischemia. While angina at rest, dizziness, and falling blood pressure are potential complications following cardiac catheterization, they are not typically associated with the immediate post-procedural period. Monitoring for thrombus formation is essential to ensure early detection and intervention, which can prevent serious complications.
4. The healthcare provider is preparing to use an otoscope for an examination. Which statement is true regarding the otoscope?
- A. Often used to direct light into the sinuses
- B. Used to examine the structures of the internal ear
- C. Uses a short, broad speculum to help visualize the ear
- D. Directs light into the ear canal and onto the tympanic membrane
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The otoscope is a tool used to examine the ear canal and tympanic membrane, which separates the external and middle ear. It is not intended to direct light into the sinuses or examine the internal structures of the ear. The otoscope typically uses a short, narrow speculum to aid in visualizing the ear canal and tympanic membrane, not a short, broad speculum as mentioned in choice C.
5. The instructor is teaching a class on basic assessment skills. Which of the following statements is true regarding the stethoscope and its use?
- A. Slope of the earpieces should point forward toward the examiner's nose.
- B. It blocks out extraneous room noise but does not magnify sound.
- C. The tubing length should be 14 to 18 inches to prevent sound distortion.
- D. Both fit and quality of the stethoscope are important.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The stethoscope does not magnify sound but effectively blocks out extraneous room noises. The correct orientation of the earpieces is with the slope pointing forward toward the examiner's nose, not posteriorly. The tubing length of a stethoscope should ideally be between 14 to 18 inches (36 to 46 cm) to avoid sound distortion. Using tubing longer than this range can distort sound. Both the fit and quality of the stethoscope are crucial for accurate auscultation and assessment, highlighting their significance in clinical practice. Therefore, the correct answer is that the stethoscope blocks out extraneous room noise but does not magnify sound.
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